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The programme targets the protein vaccinia-related kinase 1 (VRK1), which is involved in the cell's response to DNA damage and control of cell division. Elevated levels of VRK1 are correlated with poorer survival in a variety of cancers. VRK1 has also been identified as a possible target protein in cancers that have low levels of the related protein VRK2, such as glioblastoma and neuroblastoma.
In August 2023, Sprint Bioscience licensed the global rights to the VRK1 programme to Day One Biopharmaceuticals Inc.
Potential contract value: USD 316 million plus single-digit royalties on sales of a future drug from the programme.
The PETRA01 programme aims to develop a new type of treatment for cancer. The programme was originally licensed to the company Petra Pharma, which took the programme forward and identified a clinical candidate for AML (acute myeloid leukaemia). Subsequently, the agreement was transferred to the newly established Ravenna Pharmaceuticals, a spin-out from Petra Pharma, which took over responsibility for the further development of the programme and the financial commitments.
In March 2021, the PETRA01 programme was purchased by the US cancer drug company HiberCell Inc.
Despite positive pre-clinical results, HiberCell decided in December 2022, due to strategic priorities in its clinical portfolio, not to pursue the programme further. The process for the return of the PETRA01 programme and all associated documentation and ownership rights is progressing. Sprint Boscience continues to see great commercial potential for the programme and is preparing to find a new partner as soon as the return is completed.
- Withdrawal in progress